A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cocoa Beach vs. Whistler for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cocoa Beach and Whistler. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a fun-filled, relaxing, and adventurous beach town. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Whistler travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Whistler than Cocoa Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Whistler is better known for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Cocoa Beach is more popular for its museums and attractions and beaches. Whistler is more touristy than Cocoa Beach and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Whistler is famous for Cloudraker Skybridge. Cocoa Beach is well known for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Whistler and Cocoa Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is very popular for skiing and snowboarding. However, Cocoa Beach is not a skiing destination.

Whistler is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Cocoa Beach is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

Cocoa Beach is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cocoa Beach can be an interesting and educational experience. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

Is the Food Better in Cocoa Beach or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Cocoa Beach and Whistler offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

Cocoa Beach has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Whistler makes for a great culinary experience. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Whistler has a large number of nightlife venues. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Cocoa Beach has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Whistler to choose from. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Cocoa Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Whistler is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cocoa Beach. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Whistler is well-known for its hiking and trekking. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Cocoa Beach and Whistler.

Cocoa Beach has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Whistler is a great destination for shopping. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler More Beautiful?

Whistler is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Cocoa Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler Better for Families?

Both Cocoa Beach and Whistler are world-class family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is very family-friendly. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Whistler is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach and Whistler both great destinations for a couple.

Cocoa Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Couples visit Whistler frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cocoa Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there aren't any hostels in the area, there are some affordable hotels away from the beach.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Whistler is not a good village for times when you don't have a car.

Cocoa Beach has a few public transit options. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

Public transit is mostly limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Cocoa Beach or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

Cocoa Beach is somewhat walkable. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

For even more information, also check out Is Cocoa Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

In either Cocoa Beach or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Whistler has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Whistler than Cocoa Beach. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

Families should spend more time in Whistler than Cocoa Beach. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Whistler, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Whistler than Cocoa Beach. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Whistler that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler than Cocoa Beach if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Whistler.

One day in Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

The beach town of Cocoa Beach offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the charming village of Whistler. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

Cocoa Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this beach town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cocoa Beach, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming destination of Whistler. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This village offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

Cocoa Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cocoa Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the adventurous village of Whistler. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Whistler. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cocoa Beach and Whistler, we can see that Cocoa Beach is more expensive. And not only is Whistler much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Whistler would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Whistler and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cocoa Beach would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cocoa Beach than you might in Whistler.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cocoa Beach Expensive? and Is Whistler Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

Cocoa Beach has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Whistler, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Cocoa Beach or Whistler?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Whistler in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Whistler. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Whistler for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cocoa Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Whistler averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Whistler because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cocoa Beach is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 77°F (25°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. It's quite rainy in Cocoa Beach. In October, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Whistler. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Whistler in the Winter?

Both Whistler and Cocoa Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

It's quite cold in Whistler in the winter. Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Whistler in the winter. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 63°F (17°C) in January, and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Whistler. The beaches are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Whistler for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cocoa Beach is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cocoa Beach in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Whistler averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Cocoa Beach usually receives less rain than Whistler. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Cocoa Beach